Stitch dictionary
Hand embroidery Stitch Dictionary: 20 Stitches Step by Step
Start with the beginner hand embroidery stitches: Backstitch, Blanket Stitch, Chain Stitch, Couching. This dictionary covers 20 hand embroidery stitches with step-by-step instructions, US and UK abbreviations where they exist, common mistakes and related stitches, sorted from easiest to most challenging.
The table below lists all 20 hand embroidery stitches in this dictionary, sorted from easiest to hardest, of which 12 are rated beginner level. Each name links to numbered steps for that stitch.
| Stitch | US | UK | Difficulty | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backstitch | bs | bs | Beginner | Lettering, Outlines in cross stitch, Fine detail |
| Blanket Stitch | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Applique edges, Felt, Blanket edges |
| Chain Stitch | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Bold outlines, Lettering, Filling with rows |
| Couching | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Metallic threads, Yarn and cord, Bold outlines |
| Cross Stitch | X | X | Beginner | Counted designs on Aida and evenweave, Samplers, Pixel art |
| Fly Stitch | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Leaves, Grass, Borders |
| Lazy Daisy (Detached Chain) | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Flower petals, Leaves, Scattered filling |
| Outline Stitch | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Outlines, Redwork, Lettering |
| Running Stitch | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Outlines, Sashiko, Hand quilting |
| Seed Stitch (Embroidery) | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Textured fills, Shading, Backgrounds |
| Split Stitch | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Outlines, Padding under satin stitch, Filling with rows |
| Stem Stitch | n/a | n/a | Beginner | Stems and vines, Curved outlines, Lettering |
| Colonial Knot | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Candlewicking, Dots, Flower centers |
| Feather Stitch | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Crazy quilt seams, Borders, Foliage |
| French Knot | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Flower centers, Eyes, Dotted texture |
| Herringbone Stitch | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Borders, Crazy quilt seams, Shadow work base |
| Satin Stitch | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Small shapes, Petals, Monograms |
| Woven Wheel (Spider Web Rose) | n/a | n/a | Intermediate | Roses, Raised flowers, Floral borders |
| Bullion Knot | n/a | n/a | Experienced | Roses, Caterpillars, Raised texture |
| Long and Short Stitch | n/a | n/a | Experienced | Shading petals, Thread painting, Animals and realistic motifs |
Frequently asked questions
Which embroidery stitches should a beginner learn first?
Four stitches cover most designs: running stitch for dashed lines, backstitch for solid outlines and lettering, satin stitch for filling small shapes, and the French knot for dots and flower centers. Everything else here is a variation on a line, a fill or a knot.
What is the best stitch for outlining a design?
Backstitch makes the crispest solid line and is the standard for lettering. For curves, stem stitch flows better because it twists like a rope, and outline stitch is the same motion with the thread held on the other side of the needle. Split stitch doubles as a neat outline and as padding under a fill.
How do you embroider realistic shading?
Use long and short stitch, the thread painting fill. Outline the shape in split stitch, then work rows of alternating long and short stitches so each row bites into the one above and the colors blend. It is the most demanding stitch in this dictionary, rated experienced, and it rewards good light and a taut hoop.
Which stitch makes a raised knot or flower?
The French knot is the quickest raised dot, and the colonial knot wraps in a figure eight for a rounder, more consistent result. For a longer coiled bar, use a bullion knot, and for a full raised rose weave a woven wheel over five spokes.
Researched from manufacturer specifications, owner manuals and verified owner reviews, not hands-on testing, and not professional advice. As an Amazon Associate, Cozy Stitchery earns from qualifying purchases.
